McLaren denies reports of acquisition by Apple

British luxury carmaker McLaren has poured cold water on reports that it has been in discussions with Apple over a possible takeover or strategic investment by the US tech giant.

The Financial Times reported on Wednesday that the US tech giant had opened negotiations in a first solid indication that it was heading in the direction of the auto industry.

"We can confirm that McLaren is not in discussion with Apple in respect of any potential investment," a McLaren spokesman said.

However, the spokesman did say that it was company policy not to make public whatever discussions takes place between McLaren and other entities.

"As you would expect, the nature of our brand means we regularly have confidential conversations with a wide range of parties, but we keep them confidential."

The maker of the iPhone is said to be working on autonomous driving technology after hiring various vehicle experts over the last 12 months.